July Tests 2021

A Look at Weekend Results from the Americas 2023 RWC Potential Qualifiers: How Does Canada Compare?

What is the prognosis of Canada making it through the RWC 2023 qualifying process after the weekend action? It’s too early to tell but the weekend results didn’t alter the opinion held by many, and backed by the ranking statistics, that Canada are ranked 3rd in the Americas qualifying process. A 3rd place ranking in the Americas (Argentina excluded as they’ve qualified already) would mean the repechage again, a repeat of the 2019 RWC qualifying.

Canada looked defensively weak and uninspired against the Wales team on Saturday, losing by 56 points, 68-12. The USA, on the other hand, put in a better performance against England, losing by 14 points, 43-29. Uruguay defeated an Argentina XV by 16 points, 42-26. The Uruguay U20 team is also playing in a tournament in South Africa, and lost to Georgia U20 by 12 points, 20-8. Also in that U20 tournament are South Africa and Argentina.

Bottom line is that #16 USA and #17 Uruguay are ranked ahead of #23 Canada, and are currently playing better rugby. Plus Uruguay U20 are getting some quality competition.

Canada’s match this weekend, against a common opponent, England, will provide further data for a snapshot of where Canada is compared to USA, the team they will meet in September for a home and away series.

In other national men’s XVs news, another Welshman has been added to the coaching staff, Byron Hayward. The Wales Online article explains his role with Canada.

What is Hayward’s new role with Canada?

Hayward has been appointed to the role of technical adviser with Canada, who are currently 23rd in the World Rugby rankings. It is his first role since he left Wales.

He has linked up with another former Wales international in Kingsley Jones, who is the Canada head coach. Former Wales scrum-half and coach Rob Howley is also an assistant in their setup.

Jones said Hayward’s appointment “allows me to step back and be a proper head coach”.

The TV camera zoomed into the Canadian coach’s box during last weekend’s game showing the Welsh trio. Canadian Academy coaches Jamie Cudmore and Phil Mack are also in Wales with the team.


The Canadian/Welsh coaching team Howley, Jones, Hayward

Posted in Editorials.